Charlotte's+letter

July 16, 1865

Dear Family,

You may have already heard of the brutal explosion on the steamboat, but you do not need to worry about me.

It was a horrible sight after the harsh scene quieted down. I saw many of my mates trying to swim as best as they could, but like me, were very injured. The explosion’s sparks and flames blinded me for a few seconds. The smoke was overwhelming, and made my eyes tear up. But that wasn’t all, the endless cries of passengers made my terrified heart skip beats. And the weakest ones or others painfully withered away. I was on the second deck, when the force of the explosion and the hot flames pushed me over board. I myself started thrashing around, but knew that would not help. Due to my condition, with two dislocated patellas, a slightly split open eyebrow, and a bad virus, I could not swim or survive by skills. So I am thankful that Dad had told me what to do in case of this situation. I’ve been drifting on a piece of cargo for a week now. All these memories kept coming back to me, and I’m afraid that the awful sight will always be in my mind. I luckily came to shore in Ohio and some fishermen happen to come across me.

There, I was taken to a hospital. The doctors hear have been greatly generous to me. But it is taking them awhile to figure out how to heal me. They said that it might take a month at the least. But I will not be able to participate in many of my hobbies and jobs for a while. As soon as I am done, I will arrange for a wagon to pick me up. I aim to be back before Christmas. I hope you are all safe and will send me the news in York, Pennsylvania.

Lots of love, Charlotte

Dear Charlotte,

I am so glad I am getting to speak to you! When I heard this trajic disaster had occured, I was terrified because I knew you were on the Sultana. The whole family thought it was very unusual that the captain let the boat over flow with all of those people.

But now I know you are safe and getting taken care of. I hope that you are feeling better with your broken patellas, and your cut on your eye brow. I am so glad that you are being treated very well. I hope by now that the doctors had found a way to heal you so the family can see you sooner! We miss you so very much!!

Love, Your family